Boeing 737 MAX Inspections Ordered After Cracking Reports

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an airworthiness directive requiring inspections of Boeing 737 MAX jets to check for potential cracking around the forward galley door. The affected aircraft models include the 737-8, 737-9, and high-density 737-8200.

According to the FAA, cracking in the bear strap and adjoining fuselage skin could compromise the structural integrity of the plane. Inspectors must visually examine the area for existing repairs or cracks, which may require further investigation using eddy current inspections.

The estimated cost of the initial inspection is around $85 per aircraft, with a total fleet cost of approximately $40,035 across 471 affected US-registered jets. Boeing supported the directive without requesting changes to its original proposal.